Agia Napa

Ayia Napa (Greek: Αγία Νάπα; Turkish: Aya Napa; officially transliterated into English as Agia Napa) is a resort at the far eastern end of the southern coast of Cyprus, famous for its sandy beaches. In recent years, apart from being a family holiday destination, it has become a 'party capital' similar to Ibiza, Rimini, and Mykonos. As of late, it has become particularly popular with UK Grime, House, and Garage artists/MCs for holidays and gigs in its clubs and other venues.The name Ayia Napa is derived from a Venetian-era monastery of the same name, located in the center of the town, next to the square that today is the clubbing center. The word "Ayia" (Agia) means "holy" in Greek. The word 'Napa' is archaic and means "wooded valley", or dell. In ancient times the area surrounding the town was covered with thick forest.

According to local legend, the now renowned original icon was accidentally discovered by a hunter in hot pursuit of his prey. Upon discovery, the icon of Virgin Mary was called Virgin Mary of Napa, eventually shortened and now know as Ayia Napa. The present monastery, built in 1500, was built around the cave, in honour of the Virgin Mary of Ayia Napa. According to local tradition, until 1790 no-one lived within close vicinity of Ayia Napa. The first inhabitants who actually appeared and settled were twenty men from Salonica, Greece, and so began the village of Ayia Napa.